East Valley Focus

VAN NUYS : Chick Representative to Address Crime

A representative from City Councilwoman Laura Chick's office will be on hand today to discuss crime and other concerns with west Van Nuys merchants at a meeting of the Corporate/Business Watch.

The 6 p.m. meeting at American Pacific State Bank, 16600 Sherman Way, will feature Rayna Gabin, a field deputy from Chick's San Fernando Valley office.

"The meeting will be to discuss how the City Council can get more involved with the Los Angeles Police Department and the Corporate/Business Watch," said Shelly Joanis, who organized the watch program.

Since its inception in June, Joanis said, many of the 33 watch members have reported a variety of crimes in the area to police, including dozens of graffiti vandalism incidents and the thefts of four cars that were later recovered.

"We're doing awesome," Joanis said. "A lot of other businesses are asking for suggestions on how to start up business watches. Businesses are concerned about what's going on in their areas."